The Myall River Festival provided the impetus for the Rotary Club of Myall Coast and Scouts Australia to promote the proposed re-establishment of the Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens Scout Troop.

Rotary’s offer to Scouts Australia to join them at the Rotary stall was heartening with around 70 expressions of interest from eligible children and one offer to join as a Troop Leader received.

Renovations at the Scout Hall in Hawks Nest are going ahead with a number of local tradesmen giving their time and advice free of charge. Generous assistance has also been received from Pelican Pest Control and The Mens’ Shed.

To raise additional renovation funds, Rotary ran a guessing competition at the Festival stall. Every bit helps, but more funds are needed to complete the work.

“The benefits that will flow to our local community by reforming the Troop will be substantial,” Mr Ian Mackenzie-Smith from the Rotary Club of Myall Coast said.

“They will provide an avenue for the youth of the district to become involved in the well-known Scouting movement.”

Any parents who were involved in “Scouts” growing up will attest to the value of providing healthy outdoor activities under experienced and trustworthy leaders.

“Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens have an extremely active Surf Lifesaving Nippers group that demonstrates the enthusiasm of young local children to get involved,” Mr Mackenzie-Smith said.

Any enquiries or donations for the renovations will be gratefully received by local Scouting representative Neil Renfree. Neil can be contacted on 49971586.